The Isle of Portland Aldridge Community Academy Trust appoints first Principal

The Isle of Portland Aldridge Community Academy Trust has announced the appointment of Mrs Alison Appleyard as the Academy's first Principal. Mrs Appleyard, who is currently Principal of St Aidan's Church of England Academy in Darlington, will take up her position in January 2013. Mrs Appleyard will be working informally with staff on Portland ahead of the Academy opening in September. She will also be released from her current role for a number of weeks in the autumn term, before taken up her permanent post in January.

Honor Wilson-Fletcher, Chair of Governors Designate said: "We had a remarkably strong response to our advert for the role with a number of very good candidates to choose from. The interview process was a deliberately rigorous one, involving our existing Headteachers, governors and students. Portland deserves an exceptional Academy that improves opportunities for all the children on the Island, and that requires an exceptional Principal as leader. In Alison, I am sure we have found just that."

"As is often the case with large and complex projects like this, Alison will be supported by an experienced Executive Head during the development phase, to ensure that the considerable workload involved will not fall on one individual. Monica Cross, who has a wealth of experience including leading a 4-19 Academy, is already working with us in this capacity and will assist Alison to ensure that the Academy project progresses towards opening smoothly. She will also have the support of our Academy Director for Portland, Jane Fooks, and our existing Heads."

"I am confident that this gives us an exceptionally strong leadership team to deliver a remarkable Academy for the community of Portland."

Mrs Appleyard said "I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as the first Principal of the new Isle of Portland Aldridge Community Academy. Portland is a very special place and this is a unique and exciting opportunity to serve the young people and community of the island. "